Iran’s Oil Minister Addresses US Sanctions and Energy Security
Iran’s Oil Minister, Mohsen Paknejad, has criticized the politicization of energy security by the United States, particularly in light of recent sanctions imposed by President Donald Trump on Iranian oil production. Speaking on Wednesday, Paknejad warned that Trump’s unilateral measures could destabilize the global energy market.
"Energy security should not be politicized. OPEC should not be pressured, as it can harm oil traders and disrupt the global energy landscape," Paknejad stated. He reaffirmed that Tehran has solid strategies in place to counteract the effects of US sanctions.
On February 4, 2025, President Trump signed a presidential decree aimed at intensifying pressure on Iran. In response, Trump indicated a potential openness to negotiating with Iran, although he expressed dissatisfaction with the current circumstances. “I hope that more measures won’t be necessary. We will utilize a range of options. I am not pleased with the situation, but we must remain resolute,” he said.
China remains Iran’s largest oil buyer, as the country currently produces approximately 3.5 million barrels of oil per day. Despite the US sanctions preventing Iran from disclosing official export figures, energy analysts estimate that Iran is exporting about 1.5 million barrels per day, albeit at a compromised rate, reduced by 20 to 30 percent.
As discussions continue around the implications of these sanctions, the impact on global energy security and market stability remains a critical concern.